Department of Family Services Alert:

CONTACT INFORMATION: Monday–Friday 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

703-324-7948 TTY 711

FairfaxAAA@fairfaxcounty.gov

12011 Government Center Parkway, Suite 708
Fairfax, VA 22035

FairfaxCounty50

Trina Mayhan-Webb
Director

Department Resources

Related Resources

May is Older Americans and Adult Abuse Prevention Month

Older Americans Month: Flip the Script on Aging May 2025

Older Americans and Adult Abuse Prevention Month 2025

Every year, Older Americans Month celebrates the contributions of older adults and reaffirms our commitment to serving them. The 2025 theme, "Flip the Script on Aging,” encourages us to challenge outdated stereotypes and embrace the many opportunities that come with aging. Flipping the script on aging requires a thoughtful examination of our personal views of growing older. It also encourages a societal shift in the perception of aging, from one of years of decline to one of continuing to living life to the fullest. Fairfax County’s Department of Family Services Adult and Aging Division offers a wide range of programs, services and resources to help older adults and adults with disabilities live safely, independently, and with dignity.

Protecting older adults and incapacitated adults from abuse, neglect, or exploitation is a goal of Fairfax County’s Adult Protective Services (APS). This month we recognize Adult Abuse Prevention Month and encourage everyone to help protect and keep vulnerable adults safe. APS investigates reports of abuse, neglect, or exploitation of adults. Reports can be filed for people who live alone, with relatives or who are residents in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, hospitals, or group homes. To make a report, call 703-324-7450. Learn more about Adult Protective Services.

The Board of Supervisors recognized May as Older Americans Month and Adult Abuse Prevention Month at its April 22, 2025 meeting and presented the following proclamation:

WHEREAS, Fairfax County hosts a vibrant, growing older adult population that enriches our community with wisdom, resilience and ongoing contributions to civic life, family and neighborhoods; and

WHEREAS, May is recognized nationally as Older Americans Month, with this year’s theme, “Flip the Script on Aging,” encouraging us to challenge stereotypes and celebrate aging as a period of purpose, growth and meaningful connection; and

WHEREAS, Fairfax County supports the ability of residents to age in place with dignity, independence and security through its implementation of the SHAPE the Future of Aging Plan, offering programs and resources that promote engagement, learning and volunteerism for older adults; and

WHEREAS, these efforts include community events, services and supports that empower older adults to stay active, involved and thriving throughout their lives; and

WHEREAS, in 2024, the Aging, Disabilities and Caregiver Resource Intake Line handled 21,269 calls, and Adult Protective Services investigated 1,313 cases, reaffirming our commitment to protect vulnerable older adults from abuse, neglect and exploitation, as well as to ensure the safety of all community members; NOW THEREFORE

BE IT RESOLVED, that the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, on behalf of all residents of Fairfax County, does hereby proclaim May 2025 as Older Americans Month and Adult Abuse Prevention Month in Fairfax County, and urges all residents to acknowledge the contributions of our older adults while promoting programs and activities that enhance connection, inclusion, protection and support for them.

Learn More About Programs and Services for Older Adults

The Fairfax County Department of Family Services offers many programs and services for older adults and family caregivers. Learn more about Older Adult Services.

SHAPE the Future of Aging is a strategic plan to make the Fairfax area a better place to age, for older adults to live safely, independently, and with dignity. The SHAPE the Future of Aging plan is aligned with the Fairfax County Strategic Plan and OneFairfax to address the needs of older adults as we plan for the future.

The Adult and Aging Division offers a variety of support and respite programs for family caregivers. Check out Family Caregiver Support Programs.

Don’t miss the articles about the strong, talented and wise older residents of Fairfax County and learn about the myriad of resources available for older adults and caregivers in the free Golden Gazette newsletter. Subscribe today!

The Fairfax Area Commission on Aging (COA) is comprised of 12 volunteers appointed by elected officials of Fairfax County, the City of Falls Church and the City of Fairfax to advocate for the needs of older adults and tap their potential to enrich the community. Learn more about the Commission on Aging.

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